#FirstpostAfrica: France Says They Helped Benin Thwart Coup Attempt Benin narrowly avoided a military coup recently, with France claiming to have offered intelligence and support to thwart the takeover attempt. President Patrice Talon communicated with French officials, leading to Nigeria deploying fighter jets and troops after Benin's request. Gunfire erupted in Cotonou as soldiers claimed they ousted Talon. The president praised his forces for regaining control swiftly. The coup attempt has ra